Police investigate second sexual assault complaint at Falls Festival

Tasmania Police has received a second sexual assault complaint at the Marion Bay Falls Festival.

The woman told police she was assaulted in the camping area during the early evening on Saturday.

She was provided with support, however, decided she did not want police to formally investigate the matter.

Investigators will still follow up on elements of the incident, Detective Constable Damien Mcvilly said.

It follows a complaint made by a 19-year-old woman, who was assaulted on Friday about 9.30pm, during a set from band The Jungle Giants.

Fall Festival producer Paul Piticco said the organisers have been made aware of the complaints.

“(We) have been told by police these are allegations at this point. Until the police have concluded their investigations, we are unable to comment.”

Detective Constable Mcvilly said police presence had been increased at the festival and the mosh pits were covered by security cameras.

For any potential perpetrators at the festival, Tasmania Police has a message for you; “You’re being watched.”

The police were satisfied with the progress of the investigation into the Friday night complaint as evidence had been secured and they had invited people to come forward with any additional evidence.

“We will work with the victim so we can identify the perpetrator,” Detective Constable Mcvilly said.

When asked about social media remarks calling for women to learn to speak up, the detective said the commenters did not have the full details and did not realise how difficult it could be to come forward.

Police officers, event security and St John Ambulance are on the scene to support patrons.

“There is support available, even if you only want to speak to someone,” he said.

Event organisers and the police have condemned the behaviour, urging those in the mosh pits to stay with friends and to seek assistance from the nearest police officer or event security if they became isolated or felt unsafe.

Tasmania Police would like to hear from any person who may have witnessed the incident and in particular would like to speak with two female patrons who assisted the victim exit the mosh pit on Friday night.